Lenovo's Miix series of 2-in-1 tablets is getting an upgrade in the middle of its range with the new Miix 520. This detachable 2-in-1 takes after the Microsoft Surface line, though with a few signature Lenovo flourishes.
| Category | Spec |
|---|---|
| Display | 12.2-inch FHD IPS touch display |
| Processor | 8th-gen Intel Core i5 or i7 processor |
| RAM | Up to 8GB |
| Storage | Up to 256GB SSD |
| Rear Camera | 8MP |
| Pen | Lenovo Active Pen |
| Cellular Connectivity | LTE (optional) |
| Security | Fingerprint Reader (optional) |
| Thickness | 9.9mm (without keyboard) |
| Weight | 880g (without keyboard) |
| Battery | Up to 7.5 hours |
On the specs front, the Miix 520 comes with a mix of the latest tech, including the new 8th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, with up to 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of SSD storage. That all drives a 12.2-inch Full HD IPS touch display with support for Lenovo's Active Pen and Windows Ink. This package measures a mere 9.9mm thick and weighs just 880 grams — though that is without the keyboard attached.
Like the previous generation of Miix tablets, the 520 takes after the Surface-style kickstand — a metal panel hinged in the middle of the tablet. But because this is Lenovo, the hinge is a small version of the watchband hinges from the bigger Yoga convertibles. It's a nice look and adds a bit of visual flourish to an otherwise staid design.
As this is a tablet, limited physical connectivity is to be expected. You'll find a single USB-C port (no Thunderbolt 3 here), a single USB-A port, a headphone audio jack, and a power port. That said, the Miix 520 will have an option to add on an LTE radio with a SIM card slot, so the road warrior in you will be satisfied. Also optional is a Windows Hello-compatible fingerprint reader along the side of the tablet. Lenovo's built in a set of far-field microphones that will allow use of Cortana from afar — up to 4m.
As this is a slim and light tablet, some sacrifices were required, most obviously in the battery — Lenovo projects a battery life of 7.5 hours from the Miix 520.
If all this strikes your fancy, know it'll be available in October 2017 in platinum and iron gray colors, with a starting price of $999 in the US, bundled with both the keyboard and Lenovo Active Pen.
Derek Kessler is Special Projects Manager for Mobile Nations. He's been writing about tech since 2009, has far more phones than is considered humane, still carries a torch for Palm, and got a Tesla because it was the biggest gadget he could find. You can follow him on Twitter at @derekakessler.
